Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Combination of straight grain on side panels with cathedral patterns on the central door and decorative book-matched veneer strips. Figures include light waves and subtle curl typical of furniture-grade veneer.
Color Description
Heartwood is a classic dark chocolate brown with rich reddish undertones. Sapwood is naturally pale yellowish-gray but likely stained to match. The finish shows aged patina with significant depth and slight darkening over time.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack. Excellent dimensional stability once seasoned.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior paneling, and decorative marquetry.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Veneer grade is valued at $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot for solid lumber; antique value of the piece exceeds raw material cost.
Wood Age Estimate
Vintage/Antique (estimated 50-80 years old based on the Art Deco style details, nitrocellulose lacquer patina, and slight veneer chipping along the edges).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native North American range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though the veneer in this sample is thin and prone to chipping if sanded aggressively.
Notable Features
Faint, pleasant spicy scent when worked. Known for its exceptional dimensional stability and high chatoyance (luster) under a clear finish.
Finish Recommendations
Historically finished with nitrocellulose lacquer or shellac. For restoration, a high-quality wiping oil or shellac is recommended to maintain the depth of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the color, grain structure, and its specific application in this style of mid-20th-century cabinetry are classic hallmarks of Black Walnut veneer.